Walsh also brushed off criticism from Barlow for his comments about Cocozza on last Saturday's show, claiming: "I'm sorry guy, I was just being honest."

All four X Factor judges were speaking at a conference to introduce their four returning acts - Amelia Lily, Jonjo Kerr, James Michael and 2 Shoes - who will compete in a public phone vote for the right to replace Cocozza in the talent show.